Page 17 of Night with a Gamma (Golden Strings of Fate #2)
BONFIRES AND WARM-UP ROUTINES
Wren
The sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the training grounds.
The atmosphere is electric with anticipation, a palpable energy that buzzes through the air as the Waterton Pack gathers for our first training session since the revelations about Lenore.
I stand at the forefront, flanked by Harrison and Poppy, ready to lead the pack and coven into the fray.
“Listen up, everyone!” I call out, my voice clear and steady as I survey the gathered members. “Tonight, we train not just to strengthen our bodies but to fortify our spirits. We face a formidable enemy in Lenore, and we must be ready for anything she throws our way.”
The pack members nod, their expressions a mix of determination and resolve. I can see the fire in their eyes, the same fire that ignited during our earlier meeting. They’re ready to fight, ready to protect their home, their family.
Harrison steps forward, his presence commanding. “We’ve faced challenges before, and we’ve come out stronger every time. Tonight, we’ll focus on tactics and teamwork. High Priestess Agatha, Wren and their coven will assist us in enhancing our magical defenses while we hone our fighting skills.”
A chorus of agreement rises from the pack, and I can feel the energy swell around us.
“Let’s start with some warm-ups,” I suggest, leading by example as I stretch my arms and legs, feeling the tension release from my muscles.
The pack follows suit, and I can’t help but smile at the sight of my friends and allies preparing for battle.
As we move through our warm-up routines, I glance at Poppy, who stands beside me, the highlights in her chestnut hair catching the fading light. “How are you feeling?” I ask, concerned about the toll this situation might take on her.
She shrugs, a determined look in her eyes. “Wren, I’ve been through worse. This is our chance to show Lenore we won’t be cowed or divided. We fight for each other, and that makes us stronger.”
Her words resonate with me, reminding me of the ties we share. I take a deep breath, centering myself as we transition into the first exercise — partner drills designed to enhance our fighting skills and coordination.
“Pair up!” I call out, watching as members of the pack break off into pairs, their movements fluid and practiced. “Focus on communication and trust. That’s what will keep us alive in the heat of battle.”
As I observe the pairs sparring, I can’t help but notice the synergy among them.
They move with a grace that speaks to years of training, but there’s something deeper at play now — a shared purpose that unites us all.
I move through the group, offering tips and encouragement, my heart swelling with pride as I witness the strength within each of them.
“Good, Alpha Wyatt! Keep your guard up!” I shout to the alpha, who is grappling with Dalton. “And you, Dalton, don’t underestimate him. He’s got a bite!”
The laughter that erupts from the pack eases the tension in the air, and I can see their spirits lifting. It reminds me why we’re here — to fight not just for survival, but for the family we’ve created.
After a solid hour of sparring, I call for a break, allowing everyone to hydrate and regroup. The sound of laughter and camaraderie fills the air, mingling with the scent of the forest around us. I take a moment to catch my breath, stepping aside to gather my thoughts.
“Wren!” Harrison calls, his voice cutting through the chatter. I turn to see him approaching, a towel draped over his shoulder and a playful grin on his face. “You’re doing great out there. The pack is really responding.”
“Thanks, baby,” I reply, unable to suppress my smile. “It feels good to be part of something bigger than just myself. I’ve never felt this connected to anyone before.”
He steps closer, the warmth of his presence wrapping around me like a protective cloak. “You’re a natural leader, Little Bird. I’ve seen it in you from the moment we met. Your coven is lucky to have you.”
The sincerity in his words sends a rush of warmth through me, and I lean into him, grateful for his support. “I couldn’t do this without you, Harrison. You give me strength when I doubt myself.”
He brushes a strand of hair behind my ear, his touch sending shivers down my spine. “We’re a team, remember? We’ll face whatever comes our way together.”
Just then, Poppy approaches us, her eyes glimmering with excitement. “Wren, you won’t believe what I just overheard!” she exclaims, her voice bubbling with energy. “Wyatt is planning a surprise for us after training.”
“A surprise?” I ask, intrigued. “What is it?”
She leans in closer, lowering her voice conspiratorially. “Apparently, he’s set up a bonfire by the creek for some much-needed downtime. He wants to lift everyone’s spirits after the chaos we’ve faced.”
“That sounds perfect,” I say, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. “We could all use a chance to relax and bond outside of training.”
Harrison nods, a smile breaking across his face. “Count me in. It’ll be good for the pack to unwind. Plus, I could use a break before we dive back into planning.”
With the promise of a bonfire hanging in the air, I feel a renewed sense of energy as we return to our training. The next phase involves incorporating magic into our fighting techniques, something that excites me as a witch.
“Alright, everyone,” I call, gathering their attention once more. “Now we’re going to combine our physical training with some magical elements. I want you to focus on channeling your energy into your movements. Imagine your magic flowing through you, enhancing your strength.”
The pack members nod, their expressions serious as they prepare to delve deeper into the blending of our abilities.
I step into the center of the clearing, feeling the energy of the earth beneath my feet.
Drawing on the connection I have with the soil and fire, I let my magic flow through me, illuminating the space around us.
“Let’s start with some basic offensive spells. You can use them to distract or disable your opponent,” I instruct, demonstrating a simple spell that sends a flicker of energy toward a nearby tree. The bark erupts in a shower of sparks, and the pack gasps in awe.
“Now you try!” I encourage them, watching as they pair off once again with one witch to their wolf, this time incorporating small bursts of magic into their movements. The clearing fills with a kaleidoscope of colors as spells and energy intertwine, creating a mesmerizing display.
“Fantastic, everyone!” I cheer, feeling the excitement pulse through the group. “Remember, it’s not just about brute strength; it’s about strategy and creativity. Use your surroundings to your advantage.”
As the training session continues, I can feel the bonds between the pack and my coven strengthening. We’re no longer just allies; we’re family, united in our purpose to protect one another from the looming darkness.
After several hours of intense training, I finally call for a break. The pack members drop to the ground, panting and laughing, their camaraderie evident in the easy banter that fills the air.
“Alright, everyone,” I say, my voice ringing out over their chatter. “As promised, Alpha Wyatt has set up a bonfire by the West Creek for some much-needed relaxation. Let’s head over and celebrate our hard work!”
Cheers erupt as the pack rises to their feet, excitement palpable in the air. I glance at Harrison, who is already making his way toward the path leading to the creek. With a smile, I follow him, feeling a sense of anticipation bubbling within me.
As we approach the bonfire, the warm glow of the flames flickers against the backdrop of the night sky. The air is filled with the scent of burning wood and the sound of laughter, creating a sense of comfort that wraps around us like a warm blanket.
Wyatt stands by the fire, a proud smile on his face as he welcomes everyone. “I thought we could all use a little celebration after today’s training. You’ve all worked incredibly hard, and I’m grateful for each of you.”
The pack gathers around the fire, settling onto logs and blankets as the warmth radiates from the flames. I take a seat beside Harrison, feeling the heat from the fire chase away the chill of the evening air and help replenish some of the magical energy I expelled today.
As the night unfolds, stories are shared, laughter echoing into the night, and for a moment, we forget about the looming threat of Lenore. I listen as pack members share tales of their own experiences, their camaraderie evident in every word.
“Wren!” Poppy calls, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “You should tell us about the time you accidentally turned High Priestess Agatha's hair pink during a spell! I still can’t believe she walked around like that for a week!”
Laughter erupts around the fire, and Mom rolls her eyes, a mock scowl on her face. “I was trying to help you learn and I got that monstrosity! You had no right to turn me into a cotton candy nightmare, young lady!”
I can’t help but laugh along with the pack, the warmth of their camaraderie wrapping around me like a protective shield. “I swear it was an accident!” I reply, my laughter mingling with theirs. “I was just trying to cast a simple charm!”
As the night wears on, the fire crackles, casting a warm glow over our gathering. I feel a sense of belonging wash over me, a reminder of the family we’ve built here together. Despite the darkness looming on the horizon, we’re united, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
As the stars twinkle above us, I glance around the circle, taking in the faces of my friends and allies. I realize just how grateful I am to have found this place, this pack, and this family.